Moonstone Trek

Wake up to hot coca tea or fresh local coffee before beginning a 3.5-hour uphill hike through pristine alpine terrain. After a well-earned lunch stop, complete the final stretch to Puccacasa Pass (4,643 m / 15,229 ft), the absolute high point of the trek. From this impressive pass, take in breathtaking dual panoramas showcasing Mount Ausangate on one side and the towering, pyramidal peak of Mount Veronica on the other. Descend through quiet valleys filled with grazing llamas, alpacas, and high-altitude potato farms to reach your camp at Chancachuco, featuring front-row views of the Huaynay Glaciers.

Trek through the lush Puncuyoc Canyon along an original, uncrowded section of the Inca Trail lined with native polylepis trees and flowing streams. Along the way, follow the historic 16 km Inca Canal—the longest constructed in the empire—toward Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and the monumental Cachicata Inca Quarry. Here, history remains frozen in time: explore ancient stone masons’ dwellings, burial sites, and massive “tired pink stones” left behind centuries ago. Arrive at your quarry campsite early in the afternoon to enjoy lunch, relax, and watch a memorable sunset over the Sacred Valley.

Enjoy a peaceful 3.5-hour downhill walk from the quarry to the historic town of Ollantaytambo, soaking in untouched valley views with virtually no other hikers around. After enjoying lunch in town, board the panoramic train for a scenic rail journey alongside the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, check into your hotel with free time in the afternoon to unwind, explore the town, or visit the local hot springs before an evening dinner at a top local restaurant.

After a restful night in Aguas Calientes, your guide will meet you at your hotel early in the morning to begin your visit to Machu Picchu. From there, you’ll take the short bus ride up the mountain to the entrance of the awe-inspiring citadel. Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu showcases the incredible architectural and engineering mastery of the Inca civilization. As you explore its temples, plazas, and agricultural terraces, you’ll gain insight into its historical significance and marvel at the ingenuity that has allowed it to endure for centuries amid earthquakes and harsh mountain weather.

Following your guided tour, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy Aguas Calientes at your own pace—whether that means lunch, souvenir shopping, or a visit to the town’s namesake hot springs (optional, not included). Later in the afternoon, you’ll board your return train, and upon arrival at the station, you’ll be met by your driver for your transfer back to your hotel in Cusco.